About Bill

In late October of 1996, just weeks after my 36th birthday, I was diagnosed with a terminal disease called Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. After hearing the long and difficult-to-pronounce name of this disease I understood why people use the abbreviation of ALS or call it “Lou Gehrig’s Disease” (after the famous New York Yankee’s player that died from it).

Our family the Christmas before I was diagnosed

The diagnosis that I had 2 to 5 years to live came as a complete surprise because I had always enjoyed such great health. I didn’t even have a family doctor and had never spent one day in the hospital. Our life was going well. Our 11 year marriage was great, our daughters (ages 7 & 4) were healthy and happy… A few years earlier we built a new home and I had been promoted to the regional sales manager position that I had wanted for 10 years. Every aspect of our life was working well; we were living our small part of the “American Dream.”

I quickly discovered that trials don’t just affect one area of our life; a health crisis impacts our finances, our emotional and spiritual life and our relationships etc. Every part of our lives are connected to one another like parts of an engine and one part breaking effects the performance of the whole engine.

Within a year of being diagnosed I could no longer walk or talk so I had to resign from my job.

Even though ALS has drastically impacted my life and that of my wife and our two daughters, I don’t believe anyone should allow a disease or any life-challenge to define who they are. To do so is to give that disease or challenge more credit than it deserves and it’s the first step on the dead-end road of hopelessness.

This trial has taught us that the only way to experience genuine and consistent hope, peace and joy in the midst of a trial is to view our life and situation through God’s eyes. For me, learning this was a long and difficult, but rewarding process; an ongoing process that will continue to the day I go to be with God.

My motive for starting this blog is to pass along some of the lessons I’ve learned through the course of this trial and hopefully help others avoid some of the detrimental (hope-stealing) mistakes I’ve made.

These are important lessons for everyone to learn because, as I heard someone say, if you’re not going through a trial now, a trial is coming. I know that’s not good news, but it’s the truth. But, as I hope to show, we don’t have to fear trials because God can handle anything that this life throws our way and we can handle them too if we see the trials through the eyes of Christ!

Why did I choose the name “Unshakable Hope” for my blog?

I don’t believe God causes trials, but He clearly does allow them for reasons I don’t believe we will ever fully understand, at least not in this life. But, whatever other reasons God has for allowing trials, I discovered two big things that He accomplishes through our trials; He helps us reset our priorities and forms our character. (Obviously He had a lot of work to do on me).

God helps us reset our priorities (through trials) by “…the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain…we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken…” (Hebrews 12:27-28)

I certainly discovered that my health, finances and many other things I unknowingly was putting faith in (prior to this trial) could be shaken.

Through the following character shaping process (in our trials), I discovered that hope is one of the things that cannot be shaken; hence the name “Unshakable Hope.” “…we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint…” (Romans 5:3-5)

Our family 9/14, almost 18 years after being diagnosed with ALS

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Thanks for visiting Looking for the Blessed Hope. I tracked back to your website and was very blessed to hear your story and how you and your family are allowing God to work in the midst of what the world would see as dreadful circumstances. Your faith in Him seems genuine and your desire to use your situation is truly testimony to His work in your life and your family’s life. God bless you…and keep shining your Light!

Dear Brother Bill, I am so blessed to ‘meet’ you thru this blog. Since the Apostle Paul I have never met anyone with such much grace as you. This scripture applies to all true believers but is so much real to you. “We never give up. Our bodies are gradually dying, but we ourselves are being made stronger each day” (2Cor 4:16; CEV). Clearly, this sickness is only in your body. it is only ‘skin deep’. It has not contaminated your spirit. Therefore, this sickness is a loser. The devil is a liar! You are the winner! Be encouraged today by the power of the Holy Spirit! God bless your dear wife!

Greetings! You have an amazing testimony there Bill, I’m so glad you have shared it with us. I look forward to reading more of your blog. Thanks for stopping by my little blog, please stop by anytime, love to have you!
Steve.

Thank you so much for finding in visiting my blog. Your writing is beautiful and we share hope and strength and the will to keep going. I’m looking forward to following your blog and wishing you the best and your continued astonishing journey to live such a fulfilled life. By reading just to blog post I can see you’re an inspiration to many and now you can add me to that list. Be well my new friend.
-Rich

Every word of your story resonates with the power of God and it is beautiful the way it can encourage another human being, as it does me now. My family personally knows how a ‘ disability’ is a God given ability, through all the darker shades that follow. All I can see here is the Light of God shining through. Thank you so much. And I must tell you am grateful for Bro Bruce who talked about your blog here. We have a young son who is visually challenged and recently has been having seizures.. it is scary, the new pathway the Lord leads us through. We’ve been shaken, set back, affected in more ways than we knew possible. Your Peace flows through and I know it is the Power of Christ that paralyses all other forces and braces us with spirit wings. God bless your beautiful family and work, with tears of joy and warm greetings, a sister in Christ. Stay Blest dear warrior:)

Thank you so much for your encouragement. I’m sorry that your son is having these problems. It’s so difficult to see our kids going through trials, especially when they’re little. One of our daughters had five eye surgeries and it was really difficult for us, and for her, of course 🙂
I’m glad that Bruce let you know about my blog; he has been such an encouragement to me over the years.

You are such a great influence in my life. I pray for you every day. Yes, there is a purpose in everything the Lord allows in our life. I am in my 14th year with AlS, still doing well. Then I had a fall the end of November, broke 3 bones and ended up in Pioneer Lodge for two months. Wherever I go, God goes with me. The Lord opened up amazing opportunities to bless other patients and pray with some of the staff. I’m glad the Lord still chooses to use me and to use you in such an awesome way too, Bill.

It’s so good to hear from you. I’m sorry to hear about you falling, ouch. With ALS, walking and transfers can be dangerous. I have fallen when I used to walk, 20 years ago, and I’ve fallen out of the transfer lift several times since. Broken bones, teeth and too many painful incidents. I feel for you, my friend. But, I’m glad you were able to help and encourage others even in your pain. God didn’t cause you to get ALS or cause you to fall, but He was able to use you in your trials.
Thank you so much for your prayers.

Bill, I recently wrote a post, “Oh That I Would Ever Wonder”, about God knowing our needs as His child and the Holy Spirit using others to meet those needs. I have been so blessed to have found your site and many other fellow Christian bloggers just recently. I cared for ALS patients at different times when I was a rehabilitation nurse. I only know from that perspective what your challenges are, and I know personally, that is no knowledge at all. Your hope and life demonstrates the love, faith, and trust you have in Jesus. I read through some of your blog and listened to your and Mary’s interview. I prayed right then for you and Mary. I thank God for letting me meet you and read your testimony. It has been such a great blessing to me. I thank Him for you and Mary’s life and the work that you are doing. I will continue to pray for you Bill and Mary.

Thank you, Gay, for your encouraging words and for your prayers. As you rightly said, ALS is a real challenge – I am so thankful for God blessing me with Mary and so many others that have helped us in this extended trial.

Thank you for stopping by my blog so that I could find yours—I’m very pleased to meet you. You are an amazing testimony of faith, hope, and love!
I can’t even imagine what it’s like to deal with ALS and I hope I never do. You are definitely a stronger person than I am—I am reminded that my whining, complaining, and asking “Why me?” on my bad days is such a narrow-minded, self-centered way to be, especially when people like you are going through so much more and still have a positive attitude that inspires others to focus instead on God’s eternal perspective.
I have a question for you and you may have covered the answer in another blog post that I haven’t read yet, but if I’m not being too nosy and you’re willing to answer, I’d appreciate it. With having ALS for so long now, which must be God’s amazing power at work in your life, what assistive devices do you use to help you keep up a blog or do you still have enough hand function to type?

Thank you for your encouraging words, Mia.
I’m not “just saying this,” but I am definitely not stronger than you or any other follower of Christ. It’s truly God’s grace that expands to the size of our trial, if we’re relying on Christ in the trial.
I haven’t had the ability to type (with my hands) in 20 years, Mia. I use a special computer that has a camera that tracks my eye movements as I scan a keyboard on my computer screen. It’s slow, but I (by necessity) have become quite good with the often frustrating process. The worst part of ALS (MND in New Zealand) is losing the ability to speak. So this is also my only way to “talk.” Needless to say I lose most disagreements with my wife 🙂

Well, your faith and hope and positive attitude are definitely inspirational to me and many others! I’m so glad technology is available to help you communicate through the written word—I know your wife appreciates being able to communicate with you (and remind you that she’s always right😉) plus we all enjoy reading your encouraging and enlightening posts. Blessings to you and your family as you allow God to use you to bless others.

Thank you for sharing with Mature Living. My mother passed away in 1979 from ALS after being diagnosed for only 17 months. She was very brave through it all and her attitude impacted many people. She was featured in a 3 part series in the local small town newspaper. Ironically the last segment came out the day she passed away. She may not have been able to impact people around the world, but she certainly did in our small local community.

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: 1 Peter 1:7

Amen And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee:
for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most
gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that
the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in
reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses
for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Hello Bill – I just stumbled across your blog today, you’ve touched something deep inside of me with your testimony. I lost my dear brother to ALS six years ago. His progression was quick, and within 16 months of his diagnosis he was gone. I had the privilege of being Scott’s caregiver as I watched this disease take over his body. My greatest joy was leading my brother to Christ shortly before he died. And, while I selfishly wanted him here with me (I still do), I am at peace that my brother is walking and running in his new perfect body in His eternal heavenly home. It gives me joy to be able to connect with you, and great joy to see that you are still here. You have a strong witness and your courage to carry forward with the message of Jesus speaks volumes. God bless you and your family. And, a special blessing to your caregivers – I know it’s not an easy life. I’m going to stick around for a while and cheer you on. If you like, you can visit me at HeartoftheJourney.com ❤️

Victoria,
Thank you so much for sharing this. I’m so sorry that you lost your brother to this cruel disease. People with ALS are so thankful for selfless caregivers like you were to your brother. Because of your love and witness, your brother will spend eternity in the presence of Christ, with you. This is the important thing.

Hello Bill! So nice to see another survivor living with this terrible disease ALS. Reading your posts are uplifting and inspirational for not only us living with the disease but also those who are experiencing any tribulation. Stay strong my friend! And God bless you and those who travel this journey with you!
Lisa Marie Da Ponte

Thank you for visiting my site and liking it, Bill. Doing so led me to your blog. You have a beautiful family, and one amazing outlook on life. Thank you for proving those doctors wrong, finding purpose within your diagnosis, and sharing that with the world. We all have so very much to learn from you. Blessings to you and your heroic wife 🙂

Bill, I believe what you have is the same as what my family referred to as Huntington’s disease. I was fortunate to be in a branch whose grandfather did not have the disease. I understand that it will not show up unless one’s parents had it. Of my great grandmother’s family six out of twelve children carried and passed on the disease to half of their children. If it is the same, I can see that the Lord has been gracious to allow you this added time of a productive life. Most of my family began showing the symptoms in late twenties or near that and were disabled shortly after; I think all passed in their thirties or forties. I am not meaning to be pessimistic. I’m joining you in thankfulness that you are able to write this blog and be such an inspiration to others; especially, those who think they have to give up just because a prognosis is bad. Keep going, Bill and Mary. I sure you bless others. Unshakable Hope, Indeed!

Thank you for your kind words, Oneta.
ALS is similar to Huntington’s disease (from what I understand) in the sense that it paralyzes the body, but it also affects the mind – dreadful disease! If a person wanted to make an enemy suffer, it would be hard to think of something worse than Huntington’s disease.
So happy you are not a part of that family branch.

I believe it generally showed mental problems before physical. I know a lot of my aunts and uncles were placed in mental institution in Pueblo, Colo. That is not true of my cousins (my generation). Thankfully they had learned much about the disease by that time. I wasn’t close enough to know just how they medicated them. Probable just kept them “dumbed down.” I have checked your follow. It will be a reminder to pray for one thing, as well as to keep up with the progress of your family in this situation. Be strong in Jesus. Thanks for your follow.

Hello Bill: I have worked with your brother Mark for a long time and have heard him talk of you many times. Mark shared your appearance on the Chris Fabry show with me and my heart was touched by you, your wife Mary, your story and your faith. I too am a devout follower of Christ and know that hearing your story, and now reading your blog, will help grow in my walk with Jesus. Thank you & God bless.

Hi Bill. My name is Keira Smith and I enjoyed listening to you and your wife on Moody radio today. There are times in my life when I think everything is going bad…but that only last for a couple of minutes. Then I realize that God is carrying me through whatever it is I may be going through at the time (just like in Footprints 👣; I love that short story).
I enjoyed how positive you have remained after everything you have gone through. I admire the amount of work you put into delivering God’s message and how much time it takes you to do something most of us take for granted doing with ease. I really look forward to hearing and reading your blogs in the future. Thank you for being amazing!!!

Thank you for visiting the blog and posting your encouraging comments, Keira. Also, thank you for listening to the Chris Fabry show yesterday. As I’m sure you noticed, Mary was nervous, but like me she wanted to give others hope in Christ. He is carrying you, Keira.

Thank you for sharing your story on the radio today. My dad has early onset Alzheimer’s and much of what you shared struck a chord. Thank you for being brave enough to share the struggle and God’s faithfulness. It does change everything, but it is so encouraging to share with others going through trials and knowing God is bigger than it all.

Hi Bill, thanks for stopping by my site, that was an encouraging surprise. Thank you for your ministry of encouragement on your site. I read only a few and really appreciate your faith in Christ who truly holds our future.
“For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Corinthians 5:1).
I’m going to follow your site and hope to see more from you soon.

I’m hanging in there. I had a very special moment in which I fell in Love with my wife all over again. (Not that I ever lost it). But I felt that nervous feeling, and just fell closer to her. With our busy schedules I’m so blessed I’ve been able to have that feeling all over again. I often read your blogs, just as a reminder of God and his Mercy and Grace.

That’s such a great testimony, Jarvon. With you and your wife both being busy doctors, Mary and I were wondering how you even find time for one another. I know you make time with her and your kids a priority. You’re a good man.

I wanted to write on hope, a difficult subject, and came across your blog and your story of hope. I stand amazed at your courage and unshakable hope. I did write the post, and mentioned you in it too. I am going to refer to your blog for hope quotes from time to time – they are soo encouraging. Blessings for you today, and hope for tomorrow.

Ahhh Bill!
Thank you for the follow. If you had not found me, I very well might not have stumbled upon your inspiring blog! Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. I look forward to reading more of your thoughts and insights! I am a student of God’s Word and absolutely love seeing how God’s beautiful character manifests itself through others and reveals more about Him and who we are in Him. What a great and mighty God we have! Blessings to you and your precious family!
Karyn (saturatedinseattle.wordpress.com)

Bless you and your family and for your sharing of your wisdom. Also want to thank you for reading my blog. Hope you will check in some more as I write about using our faith to go from feeling stressed to blessed while traversing medical adversity.

You sharing is so encouraging. It was a miracle that you survived. My neighbor last for one year. It was so hard at the end that she could only use eye movement to express her needs. When I had my cancer, it was hope that sustained me and made me survive.

Thank you for your comments. The survival rates of ALS vary, the average is about four years. When it begins in the breathing muscles, probably like your neighbor, the survival rate is not good.
Yes, communication with someone who can’t speak and is paralyzed, is really frustrating for both the patient and the caregiver.

I found your blog because someone who follows mine, follows yours. So glad to now follow yours. Just the little I’ve read resonates with me, deeply. I was diagnosed with MG at age 15 so began young, learning all those lessons one learns in trials. Breast cancer at age 57 started me blogging, thanks to my husband. That led to writing a book, because people kept asking when I was going to so others could be encouraged. Book is now at the publisher. God is amazing. In my book I quote Amy Carmichael who said that what God gives us is not just for us, but is meant to share with others. Bill, thanks for sharing what God has been teaching you. We all need to hear it. And love to your wife and family who are caring for you. We thank God for the loved ones in our lives. Bless you all.

Thank you, Jacqueline. I’m sure that you have much to share after the trials you’ve been through. I’m proud of you for writing a book – that’s awesome! I really like the quote you cited. We must encourage others, especially those going through trials.

Inspiring. Uncannily your unshakeable hope is in some way an extension of a meditation I read today by Anthony de Mello.

In Meditation 2 of ‘A Call to Love’ – he reflects that all our unhappiness is due to the programmes we carry in our brain that tells us that we need health, wealth, fame even family (Luke 14.26) to be happy.

Blessings, Bill. In my internet spiritual wonderings, the Lord led me to you so that I could share this with a former teaching colleague who is working his way with aggressive cancer. And you encourage me, 81, 3 time cancer survivor living on trust beyond knowing and waiting on God’s loving desires for me to be and accomplish. In union of hope and prayer. Julie

Hi Bill, I’m sad to know you have ALS but I’m blessed by your testimony. I’m sick also, and I can relate to so many things in this post that I can’t address them all but I share not wanting to be defined by my disease. No disease can shake your hope or destroy my joy. How blessed we are to belong to Jesus.

What an interesting post. Only God can change situation. I like your concluding words in Romans 5 : 3 – 5. Thanks so much for stopping by at my blog and for the like. God’s blessings to you in the name of Jesus Christ. Looking forward to more of your visit while I frequent yours as well.

I’m so thankful I finally took time to sit my busy butt down and read more on your blog. You are inspirational and love your spirit. You said something profound that I needed to share with my facebook friends and family as my own family walks through ALS, as you stated to not allow it to define who you are. “To do so is to give that disease or challenge more credit than it deserves and it’s the first step on the dead-end road of hopelessness.”

Thank you Bill, I am eagerly excited to share your message of hope with my family.

Thank you very much. As unfortunately you know all to well, ALS is a huge challenge, not just for the victim, but for the whole family. Caregivers like my wife and your mom are angels sent from God. We must not lose hope.

Truly are. It’s so hard on everybody, but can’t imagine what you or dad is feeling and thinking. I shared your post on facebook and quoted about not allowing any disease define you. Perhaps it was too soon for my family for me to share that mindset. But it’s true. Nothing should define us, no disease, no success, no failure…. it really goes deeper than that. Thankful your refreshing attitude as you battle and live with such a disease, but continue speaking hope.

Yes, Bailey, I think it is challenging not to allow a disease like ALS, a disease that takes so much time and effort 24/7, to define you. But your dad and I are still the same people we were before ALS, it’s just our body that has changed. I just meant that if we let our physical state or our circumstances to define us, we’re setting ourselves up for great disappointment.

Hi bill, I’m subscribed to your blog through my wordpress account but havent been on wordpress in a long time. Your blog posts come in to my email.
I was greatly encouraged through your post. Our family is packing up and moving this weekend away from the town I was born and raised in for 23 years. I’ve had an anxiety disorder since I was 13 and sometimes it feels just like a disease…a crippling of the mind. But the more I surrender to Jesus Christ the more His word brings relief to my heart…Through all these changes lately I’ve been feeling so overwhelmed with anxiety and not knowing where to go next when we move. Your story of faith through trials was right on time…your determination inspires me to stay hopeful as I continue seeking God and learning to trust
him more and more. Thank you. God bless you and your family

Thank you, Heather. I’m sorry you’re struggling with anxiety problems; I know that can be crippling. I’m so glad you’re surrendering to Jesus. I hope and pray that the move and all the changes work out for the good for you.

I love this blogging world. Somehow you stumbled upon my blog and I got to “meet” you though yours. Your story is amazing. I love the title of your blog. There are so many things in this life that can shake us. You have chosen to set your feet on The Rock. I look forward to reading more.
Be Blessed…

Dear Bill, you “liked” one of my posts the other day and while I often do not have the time to investigate many other blogs, your blog title intrigued me and so I decided to check out your site. I am always so inspired, excited and encouraged to find others who are passionately, relentlessly and unashamedly pursuing a life in and for Christ. Your story amazes and thrills me as I am sure it does many others. No doubt this is not how you would have chosen to serve the Lord but there is also no doubt of the power in your life and story to touch others not because you have an illness, devastating as that unarguably is but rather because in the trial and cross you have been given to carry you have believed Jesus when He said “take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29,30

Thank you for choosing to press into the Lord and for sharing your journey. I have decided I want to follow your blog posts as I know I can only be encouraged to come up higher in Christ and that is my heart’s desire. I have re-blogged your “about Bill” because I hope others will become connected with your ministry of unshakeable hope.
God bless you.
Julie

At the risk of sounding cliche Bill, may I say I believe anyone who follows the Lord & stays the course, persevering to the end, though they may stumble & fall, each one is “proof” that God can use anyone. From the Old Testament through to today, we see examples of God’s purpose & glory triumphing in the middle of our biggest messes & failures. His glory shines all the brighter next to our tarnished righteousness. Of course, some have much more dramatic stories & circumstances, such as yourself. Others will stand back & be in awe at the power that God pours through you but i don’t believe the power of God flows through a person to that degree without great sacrifice or challenge. Many would not envy God’s power in your life to the extent that they would be willing to accept the cost you are paying. But God has called you for Himself, He will not share His glory with another & since when we are broken there is no hope of trying to take the credit for ourselves, God then has us positioned magnificently for His purposes.
Wow. Well, i am not sure what has possessed me to write you a mini-sermon. I can only omagine these are truths you know far better than I. I look forward to learning & sharing together; these blogs are a great connector!
Blessings ..,

I read your story on “God’s Report”. I have ALS. I was diagnosed 6 months ago. It started with my speech, swallowing then walking. I have told God that, his will is my will. That I will never lose my faith no matter how painful or what body part atrophies. I do get sad when I think about what is happening to me but I gave my life to Jesus Christ 8/18/2013. Babtized 6/2014. I know that God is walking ahead of me through this storm and that Jesus gives me strength. I am grateful for everything and every day God allows me to live. God Bless you and your family. Thank you for your post on God’s Report. Miki Rutter

God bless you, Miki.
You have a great faith-filled attitude.
Losing the use of your limbs and ability to eat is so difficult, but, as I know you’re discovering, losing your ability to speak is the most difficult aspect of this horrible disease.
You’re in my prayers, my new friend.
Feel free to email me at Unshakablehope@gmail.com

Thank you Bill. My ALS is genetic which is only 10 percent of all the people that have this disease. I look at it this way. Jesus was beaten with hooks attached to whips, He had to carry a wooden cross for miles while being whipped if he wasn’t moving fast enough or when he fell from the weight of the cross, the romans taunted him, spit on him, he was nailed to a cross, one nail hammered into each hand and one nail hammered into his feet, one foot over the other. And he was sinless. So why shouldn’t I suffer? Jesus Christ suffered more than anyone. I want to give GOD all the glory not the enemy so I will walk this walk with GOD walking ahead of me. I have seen amazing things that GOD has done on this journey and I will keep my eyes on Jesus. God Bless you and thank you for having a place where people can talk to other people in the same situation.

Wow, Miki, that’s really powerful!
I basically came to a very similar conclusion shortly after being diagnosed. For followers of Christ, even if we live to be 100, this life is nothing compared to eternity.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18)

This is beautiful! Thanks for sharing. I can relate in so many ways, but not all. I too am learning (finally) that God really means it when He says that He will use ALL things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes. God bless you and may He fill you and your family with unspeakable joy! Debbie.

Bill, I just wanted to stop by to wish you and your family a merry Christmas. I hope you are doing well. I continue to enjoy your posts as they are rich with insight, comfort and God’s truths. You are being used mightily by the Lord. Please hang in there!

Bill, you wrote that you want to “help others avoid some of the detrimental (hope-stealing) mistakes I’ve made.” Hope-stealing or hope giving? That is the choice, isn’t it? I’m so glad you choose hope and choose to share yours with others, including me. My best regards to you and your family.

Thank you, Angie. You are so right about hope being a choice; in the difficult times, we either move toward God (the only solid foundation of hope) or we move away from Him and begin our dark hopeless journey. I started this blog to help people choose the former.

Bill thank you for finding my blog. I am absolutely blown away by your story here. I am so inspired by the title of your blog. Unshakeable is such the right word … how many things, trials and health issues, try to shake our hope in God’s faithfulness. I am blessed by your writing and the eternal hope that you are spreading to others. Though I wish you did not have to go through what you are going through. 😦 Thank you for your courage. What a wonderful family you have too!

Thank you for visiting my blog because that led me to your blog! I am inspired by your strength and your heart for GOD inspite of your trials! My heart and my prayers are with you and your family! Infinite blessings to you! 🙂

What a powerful blog you have here, Bill. Sharing what you’ve learned as you go through your trials makes such a difference in our lives. Thank you for your unshakable hope, and may God continue to bless you and your loved ones. Thank you again for the hope and perspective you pass onto others.

Dear Bill,
Thank you for this blog! My sister Diane would have loved finding you out there. She died in 2006 after 10 years of living with ALS. Like you, she had deep faith, joy, a great sense of humor and an inquiring mind. Also lots of friends and a supportive family. I look forward to following your journey–though I can see I also have a lot of catching up to do! Thanks for following my blog and leaving a like on my last Diane post.
Elouise

I just want to thank you for your continued encouragement on my writing. I know life in general is hard. But your godly mindset and attitude of hope–because God’s hope doesn’t disappoint–is so refreshing and genuine. Your story is a gift to those who encounter it. A bright spot of perspective. I’m grateful for your heart and your perseverance. I admire you and your family for walking this path well.

Thank you, Bill, for your unshakable hope. It’s in our weakness that we see the power of God. Thank you for allowing His light to shine through you. God set your path before the foundation of the world, and He is faithful to complete His poem in you. I’m praying for you and your family. Karen

Thank you for the like. You are an inspiration to me. Thanks for encouraging me. I had a tough day yesterday and I got on the computer right now and saw your blog. Even though I don’t have time to read much now, you have been an angel to me. God Bless you! Meghan

Hi Bill! I just wanted to say thank you for visiting my blog today. It brought me back to yours and I re-read your last April post and this About page again. Tonight in my bible study we were discussing your very sentiments about challenges and how they lead to resetting our priorities and sculpting our character – to be more like Jesus. Thank you for your encouragement and for being a bright light in this dark world. Elena

Praise God Almighty for your life and testimony!! All praise to the King!!! Keep up the great work for Christ, Bill! I have been reading lots about Heaven lately Bill and can’t wait to get there! …we will all (who accept Christ) be in glorious new bodies experiencing the unimaginable! If I never meet you in this life, I will in the next!! Glory to God!

Thanks for visiting and following my blog. I see God at work here – I desperately needed to hear your story and have a lot to learn from your experiences. I’m so glad God led you to me. Thank God for you 🙂 God bless you and your family 🙂

Wow. I just happened upon your blog and I am so impressed. My reblog is not working but I am going to write just a short promo for your blog on my blog today. You can find it at http://www.spotublog.com. I hope that is okay with you. I feel as if I would be cheating my audience if I kept the treasure of your blog to myself.

Dearest Bill,
Thanks you for visiting my blog. I am so happy you did as it brought me right back to yours! Your words paint a perfect picture of what it takes to process, accept and persevere despite trials knowing and trusting He is right with you every step of the way. Your blog is such a ministry to many, no doubt, and that now includes me. Blessings to you and your family!
Catherine

Dear Bill, spotted a like and popped back to have a look. I guess it is easy to get wrapped up in the “poor chap” syndrome and ooze sympathy and platitudes in your direction. I know they whizzed through my mind as I was reading your about and ALS and recent pages. And yet that seems to make you the victim. Reading your words I see no victim. I see a family coping as best they can with something uninvited and unwelcome – but accepted. And I also guess you have come into contact with others you regard with the same humility and affection.

So, dear Bill, for finding my words – a big thank you. And for letting me find your words – an even bigger thank you. I have always thought that the lord is at work in reaching out and connecting us all together. For what reason – I have no idea. Other than to travel these blogs together and figure it out as we go along.

May God bless you and your family, Bill. The “trials” in my life are nothing compared to what you are living with. I will keep you in my prayers. Thank you for visiting my blog so that I was lucky enough to have discovered you. Blessings, my new friend.

Bill, thank you for stopping by to read and like my blog post. Thank you for sharing your story and giving hope to all who read your blog. I thank our Lord Jesus Christ that out of His abundance grace and love you face each new day with the hope that is yours through Him! I’m also praying for healing here on earth as it is in heaven!!

you know what made me Liked your “about me” or about you? is the fact that despite trials, or the condition you are facing right now—you still know how to see God or look up to God and claim that He is God!—over this! 😀

i’m blessed finding your blog, and knowing someone like you—you’re one among the few 😀

I found your blog through a comment you made on Dave Knickerbocker’s blog- Pasture-ized. I’ve read a few of your posts and look forward to reading many more! I was able to figure out by reading that we are about the same age, were married the same year and both have 2 children the same ages (except both mine were sons)! I also had to giggle when I saw the family picture above because my husband had the EXACT same sweater from the eighties you are wearing (in fact, I think he STILL has it)! And by the way, you have a beautiful family.

I believe there’s a reason for everything and it’s funny how God leads us to certain blogs. I am so sorry for your struggles with ALS but am grateful you are able to share your story. You are an inspiration and I look forward to reading more of your blog. Sure glad I found it.

I just want to say that I admire you, and I hope and pray that when trials come to my life I’ll be able to face them with the same courage and strength. God bless you and your family, I’m sure you are an example and inspiration to many.

Hi! Thank-you for following my blog. I’m looking forward to reading through yours because there seems to be a lot here that I would enjoy. I write my blog for a similar reason to you – to share my lessons (and of course I have other reasons). I like your outlook on life, keep up the good work 🙂

Wow….what a testimony! There is a crown for our suffering…it says in Revelations. But for right now….I thank God for all the grace He has given you! May the Lord continue to bless you with that grace every second of your life. May the peace of God cover you on those days….(you know what days I’m talking about) and keep you encouraged and strong in your spiritman. May the Lord take care of your family and bless and keep them. In Jesus name…amen.

Awesome testimony Bill! Only our God brings beauty out of ashes. Outstanding insight that the Lord has given you regarding trials. So much of what you wrote resonates with me. In loosing my newborn son in March, I too have seen how God sustains us in the crucible of our trials. Keep sharing. Many will find strength to continue their race.

Thank you so much for reminding me that there is an “unshakable hope” always in God, Bill. The last couple of months felt like a whirlwind for me. My uncle got sick for months (thank God, he’s much much better now), and then my 87 year-old grandpa is sick right now and it’s really breaking my heart to see him suffer because I get to take care of him sometimes. And then my mom has been diagnosed with liver cirrhosis, I don’t know what stage, but it worries me a lot, too. All these happened in unexpected succession. I told God that these events are tearing me apart inside, but I am also doing my best to remind myself that “God is bigger than my problems.”

Thank you so much for sharing your story, Bill. You are truly an inspiration. God bless you.

I am so sorry for all of these health challenges coming against your family, Irene. In Christ, I really believe that, even in the worst situations, there is always hope. I recently heard a preacher say: “If you are in Christ, so is your situation.” I love that quote!

You are a great encouragement Bill. I pray that as people read your blog, despite what they are going through, they will develop that kind of hope – unshakable hope in an unshakable God. It is rare to find people with such great faith and I trust that through your posts on this blog God will raise a people of faith; a people who will please Him.
I am pretty sure that the enemy had intended your affliction for evil but God is turning it around every day for His glory. May He grant you all your heart’s desires. May His good will be done to you and through you as you continue to hear His voice. Oh Unshakable God, may His name be praised! In this Unshakable God, do we trust!

Hello – thank you for stopping by my blog and for the like. Oh how what you write about unshakeable hope resonates with me. I think we are speaking the same language, I just chose the word “unconditional” rather than “unshakeable” to describe my blog.

My prayer for you and your family is for Our Heavenly Father who makes the impossible, possible (Mark 10:27) to RESTORE what has been plundered (Is 42:22) from you and your family. I pray that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead would give life to every cell in your mortal body (Rom 8:11) all because of who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. AMEN.

I was recently watching a clip on Joyce Meyer about this guy who was born with no hands and no legs…he said something that will stick with me, I believe, forever. He said once he accepted Christ and what he was going through, all he wanted was to “win with the hand he was dealt”….he didn’t ask God to trade in the cards; in truth he was winning. You, my brother are winning 🙂

I admire you for your attitude…unshakeable hope in an Unshakeable God 🙂

Nick Vujicic is amazing – no one who sees and hears him could doubt God or complain as much about their own little problems. Nick is married and I believe they are expecting a baby. Joni Erickson Tada is another shining beacon of hope – an example of God’s ability to use what the world sees as broken. The power of His Spirit at work in one surrendered life. Bless you Bill for being such an encourager too.

Bill, thanks for dropping by my blog. I hope you met a kindred spirit. I loved your article on “so many depressed Christians.” I could not agree more. The Savior is our greatest friend and ally, but he is ultimately still our Savior…the best thing for which we could ever hope…depressed or other wise.

Hello Bill! Thanks for stopping by StephanieHuesler.com. You might also like another blog I write, http://www.candlequill.wordpress.com...
Glad to meet you! I have two neighbours with ALS, and I can say that only with God in our lives does any of it make sense, and even when it doesn’t make sense in the moment, we can rest in his strength. I was born with Marfan’s, and have learned to live with the limitations on a daily basis; God’s mercies are new every morning, and I’m grateful for it!!

Thank you for your comments, Stephanie. That’s strange that you have two neighbors with ALS; it’s not very common. But it’s also strange that my next-door neighbor was diagnosed with ALS two years before me.

Our neighbours moved into our building complex because these buildings are wheelchair-accessible, which is not yet very common here in Switzerland (Europe in general). You’re right, it’s not very common here either….

Oh, that makes more sense, Stephanie. My wife and I have dreamed of vacationing in Switzerland since before being married 28 years ago. Unfortunately ALS has made even leaving home virtually impossible.

Bill,
Thank you for your strong words of encouragement for the Body of Christ. I pray this day finds you well as can be in your circumstances and that your wife, daughters and you are holding up well.
I commend you for your strength and for taking your trial and message to the world.
What a blessing and a wonder in these last days that we can be in our homes typing on a key board and we can send the message of the Great News of a lasting, ‘unshakeable hope’ to a world that is in need.

I think maybe Paul might be a little bit envious; that is if he was capable of envy in his glorified state in heaven today.

I had a ‘trial’ dumped upon my family and I last November. the church that I was the children’s pastor at for 16 plus years kind of threw me into the street. It was stunning and has put our family in a tough spot to say the least.

It was an ugly situation that had nothing to do with ministry. The details of the story are a sad commentary on the state of church leadership and their broken compass in regards to direction for churches. Many churches have lost their way and yet don’t even know they are lost.
If the tithe box is still full then everything must be good right?

I have been toiling over how and when or if I should ever say anything in the blog world about the trial.
I believe there is a lot within the story that can help bring help for others who have been ‘burned’ by selfish and misguided church leadership.
Not just for church staff but for many people who attend churches and get disillusioned at the ‘plastic’ Christianity that is displayed in many churches.

I don’t want to draw attention to my self, and I don’t want to be seen as one attacking the church but I do strongly feel that the leadership of the churches of today need to be called out.
In these last days the church leaders are often too big on themselves, have lost sight and touch with the cares of the people and their mission has become to keep the tithe flowing in and people filling the pews.

I also want to continue having a strong impact in children’s ministry in other churches, but it wouldn’t look good to be hitting leadership hard and expect to be welcomed into churches to help with their children’s ministry.

For me there is still a severance (keep quiet) package that is at risk if I say much, but that runs out soon.

I have been preaching to children for close to 35 years. I now get to live out the faith that I have preached. As I was again just speaking to my wife about this yesterday. Now I get to show others that my faith in God is real and not just plastic. Not a faith that God will fill my magic wallet, but that my faith is strong like that of Job; “though he slay me, yet will I trust him.”

I would appreciate your prayers on how and when or if to start sharing a message that helps to draw the attention of the true church back to the Lord as the days grow darker and the hope of others are greatly shaken when trying to trust in plastic leaders who don’t have much faith themselves.

Thank you for your comments, Doug.
I think if you are in the ministry for a long period of time or even attend church for a number of years, you will be hurt by church leaders or fellow churchgoers. Knowingly or not, the chances are that you and I have offended people at church too. I suppose it’s my former (pre-Christian) cynicism that told me never to expect too much from people; even the best Christians are fallible people. I don’t view their failings or my own failings as hypocrisy like I did before becoming a follower of Christ; it’s just the “old man” flaring-up. As I said in my post about forgiveness, when I was taken advantage of (financially) by a “Christian brother,” the only way to resolve my hurt and bitterness was to forgive the person and pray for God to bless them. Try this if you haven’t already done so.

Hi Bill,
Good reminder of course about forgiveness.
It is at the core of the Gospel for us. The Lord forgave our debt to him which was great so we are to forgive others their smaller debts.
I understand we are all just broken pots and failed instruments who as you say have offended others.
I have been a leader so yes of course I have offended and stumbled people.
I think what we do in those moments can help us lead people closer to Christ or lead people further away.
I am never surprised at selfish man being selfish to one another. I’ve seen it too many times.
My dilemma is whether there would be value in encouraging the body of Christ and also non-believers not to be distracted by the faulty leaders.
I am thinking from the perspective of a shepherd and a teacher.
Sometimes the right thing to do is to point out error and to point to the wisdom of the Word and help people understand truth. We often are too infatuated by our leaders and hold them in too high of a regard.
As the Lord confronted the leaders of his day, we still today have the blind leading the blind.
I’m concerned about those who have their eyes on failed leaders and their faith is shaken and they turn from Christ when something goes bad at church.
Bad leaders or good leaders will all give an account to the Lord.
But. What of the people who are following them? Those are the ones Jesus wanted Peter to be concerned about when he told him to feed his sheep and feed his lambs.
By instinct Peter looked at John and said, ‘What about him?”
Jesus told him not to be concerned about what others do, you just feed my sheep.

It certainly would be my preference not to say anything. I wonder though if has been given to me to do so. Not so I can drive a nail or spike into anyone or render a just reward. God wouldn’t honor such a thing. I am aware of that.
I just took a chance to think out loud with you. I wondered what you might think.
The trial that was chosen for our family was for a reason and I don’t believe it was just so that I could learn to forgive a couple of people; though that lesson is something we can never get enough of. I think there is a much bigger reason for it though I don’t pretend to know what at this point.
I want to have a hand in bringing strength to the church not to tear part of it down. The wheat and the tares parable is a great example of that lesson.

I can appreciate your dilemma, Doug. I don’t know what I would do if faced with a similar situation; I don’t think anyone can say because only you know your motives for speaking out or silent. The problem in these situations is that even if your motives for exposing the wrongs are good, you will look like your seeking revenge if you speak out alone. Church-splits can begin from situations like this so please be very careful and prayerful.

Bill…thank you so much for coming by our WMF blog and liking our post today! I just read about you and your blog and I am so glad God led you to write this. You have so much to share and your faith is so strong. Thanks so much and God bless you and your family. As God reminds me of you I will pray!

Hi again Bill. I just wanted to let you know that I would like you to be part of my little ‘cyber’ family and as such I have nominated you for The WordPress Family Award! Please don’t worry about having to do anything about it, I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you for always taking the time to visit and like my posts and for staying connected. I really appreciate it and you continue to be a huge inspiration to me. God Bless you Bill, your ministry gives me great strength in these somewhat dark days which are afflicting me at the moment. Here’s the link anyway, but just wanted to share the love and the smiles 🙂 http://sherrimatthewsblog.com/2013/07/03/back-to-you-the-wordpress-family-award/

Hi Bill,
I can’t begin to describe how refreshing it has been to read through your blog this morning.
Although I’m only 17, I’ve seen and experienced trials that have shaped who I am and who my family is today, and I’m so grateful to have the support of my church and an incredible God.
Your latest post “Why me” was exactly what I needed. I feel like God placed this morning in my life for a special reason…thank you.
Recently, at my youth group, I gave a message on “a Confident Hope”, and since then, I’ve viewed the word and it’s meaning so differently. No longer does it mean something flimsy or uncertain, but confident and steadfast. I have hope in God, because he’s the only one strong enough and reliable enough to have everything under control.
Sorry for the ramble! I just had to let you know how wonderful it was to meet your blog 🙂
Many blessings,
Alice

Thank you so much for your comments, Alice; you have a lot of wisdom for your age! I love what you said – “I have hope in God, because he’s the only one strong enough and reliable enough to have everything under control.”
Amen! Most people, including me, don’t figure that out until they’re much older – after many years of putting hopes in things, people and themselves. You’re off to a great start in life!

What encouragement it is to read your story being refreshed with the reminder that God will always be with us and help us through the hardships life may throw at us. May God Bless you and your family!!

Bill, I have nominated you for the WordPress Family Award: http://sweetrains.wordpress.com/2013/06/09/blessed-to-be-wordpress/. I know not everyone does these, but I wanted you knowing you’ve been an inspiration to me. I truly appreciate the strength and grace you’ve expressed through your faith in Jesus. Thank you, too, for the encouragement and support you’ve given me! I really appreciate it!

Your trials have brought you to the realization where Jesus writes MINE! To come to the to realization you are ENTIRELY HIS… He sees your heart and your will is a mirror to the Father’s will. You are a PERFECT delight to the Father where he blesses in abundance, not by doing, but being in the place he desires all of us to be with him. Amazing adventures begin humbled before the Mercy Seat!

Bill I am sorry to hear and find out about Als. God has a big and great plan for you. Thank you for sharing all this insight with me. I myself am recovering from a spinal injury not being able to initially move from the neck down and feel that through our struggles we are connected. As I read your writing I felt comfort and better about my situation. Like you said never give the condition more credit than it deserves.

Bill~
I am not really good at these things and I know they are time consuming and I think you’ve already even been awarded this award, but I couldn’t leave YOU out since I was taking the time to give the AWARD… so just know it is because you havve touched me… Don’t fret if you don’t have time… I just wanted to recognize you as one of my friends!
xoxo
Dianehttp://dianereedwiter.wordpress.com/?p=4067&preview=true

I have met so many people, all youngish men like you in the past year on my travels who have ALS. I am so impressed with you and with them and the meaning you are making of your lives. You are an inspiration. We all are suffering from a terminal disease, some of us so bravely. Hugs to you and your family.

Hi Bill….thanks for stopping by “Unwalled” again and deciding to follow; I am truly honored; I pray that the Lord uses my posts to encourage, edify and inspire you in 2013 and beyond……and thanks for being such a steadfast warrior of faith……:)

Thanks for sharing! Feeling compelled to pray for you and your family as you go through this intense trial. Your words ” I don’t believe anyone should allow a disease or any life-challenge to define who they are” really resonated with me as it is something that I have tried to live out in my own life. I’ve had CFS for 8 years (though I’m humbled when I think of what you’re going through) and have found it so important to not let it define me. Only Jesus should define me. Bless you.

Wow, just found your blog and have been so blessed and encouraged this morning! I shared your testimony with my husband and we both were praying for you at lunch. Jesus has received much glory from your journey!

Hi Bill, What an amazing story you have and thank you for spreading the message of true hope. I will definitely visit again! Thanks so much for stopping by my blog, and what a blessing that it led me to your blog. Blessings in Christ, Hannah

Hello Bill! I’m so glad I found your blog. What an encouragement! I’ve gone through quite a bit with my health as well so I can relate to your story. People like me need to hear the hope in the midst of tragedy and pain. Praise God for His faithfulness!

1Corinthians 10:13 “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

It was great to see you at my new blog, Bill–praying God’s favor and blessings on you and your lovely family. Whether it’s ALS or Depression, God is with us and promises to see us through–“Unshakeable Hope” means more to be now than ever; it is one of His greatest gifts to us, His children. your sister in Him, Jael-Caddo

Bill – I admire your courage and your strength in living with your ALS for so long. For me the journey is just beginning, but I am so grateful to be able to connect to fellow PALS who can help show me the path to serenity.

Thank you for liking me. I am so excited about blogging and meeting so many great people and their stories. Like they say, everyone has a story. This is day two for me and I think I am going to like this forum. Thank you for sharing your story and for your hope. God Bless You.

Hi Bill,
Thanks so much for sharing what happened to you (and your family) as a result of ALS. Know that our prayers are with you guys and that we are here for you if you want to share or even vent privately.

Thank you for your life! Your living it so well.
I am a pastor in Australia and diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND/ALS) January 16th 2013. It is still very fresh; I have recently shared this with the church that I am blessed to pastor. church180.com.

I am inspired by you to start my own blog soon as well. You are a champion Bill and I pray that as you are comforted you will have the strength to comfort others.

Thank you so much, Pastor Phil. I hate to hear that you have also been diagnosed with ALS (MND)! Please let me know when you start your blog; I look forward to following. You have a great looking website. God bless you, Pastor.

This is so inspiring. As a nurse I care for many ALS patients. Each handles it different but those who have the hope you have as well as a keen sense of humor, are a joy to be around.
I saw your follow of my blog and wanted to thank you, but I don’t see you in my list. Just checking to see if you’re still there. If so, thank you so much. You visited my Easter post, “Was Blind But Now I See”. I’d be honored to have your follow.
I was also wondering how you type your blog with ALS? Maybe I could pass some tips along to some of my patients.
Blessings to you. Great story of God’s grace. Humbling to know you sold everything to start over. Part of trials we face is the choice to cling or let go, especially when you work so hard for something. However, as a Christian, when we let go we open ourselves up to God’s great miracles.
Peace of Christ to you,
Alexandria

Thank you very much, Alexandria. I type with an eye-tracking system. It’s a tablet computer with a camera that tracks my eye movements – it has an onscreen keyboard and it clicks wherever I look on the screen. It’s tedious, but better than not being able to use a computer.

What a beautiful testimony Bill, God molds us in the midst of our trials. One of my many favorite scriptures is Romans 5: 3-5, the other is Psalms 34:19. God bless you and keep the gift of Unshakable Hope in your heart.

Hi Bill,
Thanks for visiting my blog. I’ll be back to read more of yours. I am sad that you have ALS, but very happy you read that Gideon’s bible. I like your attitude toward life even though you have to live with this disease. God bless.

Bill,
We too have lived through a medical “trial” – my husband nearly died of meningitis. The story is going in my book but you can read an excerpt here if you’d like. He had a true miracle recovery in the ICU that even the CDC doctor couldn’t explain.http://40yearwanderer.com/2013/02/16/he-was-near-death-2/
That experience and being out of work for 2 years put us in a terrible place. But God did allow it for a reason! We struggled whether or not to go through bankruptcy. Fought it for over a year. But after trying hard and then praying over it a long time, we felt as if it was what we were supposed to do in a very strange way. We didn’t want to! But God quite amazingly walked with us and showed us what we were supposed to do and since then He has blessed our devotion to Him. We wouldn’t change a thing – thankful He pulled us through.
God bless you for writing about what He has done for you and your family! I look forward to reading your blog.

Thank you for sharing that awesome testimony, Heather. I recently read a book titled “Proof of Heaven” that was written by a Neurosurgeon (didn’t believe in heaven) who had a near death experience after going into a coma brought on by Meningitis. He sure believes in heaven now:-)
I am glad your husband recovered! Happy Easter, Heather!

You’ve written so many Biblically quotable truths, I am gorging myself on them. This is a lovely testimony: God supplies not worldly affluence, but His grace, which is all we really need in our lives. May God bless you!

Wow Bill… I admire your faith in the face of massive challenges. I too sold off virtually all of what I had to deal with challenges I was facing (and mistakes I was making).

I agree that if we are not in a trial that one is unmistakably on the horizon. I do not take this as pessimistic. I know many highly successful people by numerous measurements of success…. and every one has faced trials and in fact live lives of series of tials.

Thank you for being an inspiration in your faith and determination. You help build my faith by doing so… and for many others I am sure.

Thank you, Chaz. I agree with you; admitting we’ll face trials is not pessimism, it’s being realistic and It is believing what Jesus said – “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows…” (John 16:33)

Thanks for stopping by and liking my post. I appreciate it! Glad that you found it otherwise I couldn’t have inspired and encouraged by your blog/testimony. It really put things in perspective. Thank you for sharing! Blessings!

Bill, I just came across your blog and am inspired by your faith and openness about ALS. My best friend — Jim “Catfish” Hunter, former NY Yankee and Hall of Famer Pitcher — died from ALS in 1999. Through the years I have met and known several people who have bravely continued to live and thrive while at the same time struggling with this horrible disease. Please know you are in my prayers. I believe in miracles! I believe we will one day find a cure for this so that others will never have to suffer with it. God bless you.

Thank you for your encouraging words and your prayers, Keith. As a baseball fan, I am very familiar with Catfish Hunter and I knew he had ALS. But didn’t he die from falling and hitting his head? He seemed like a great guy – sad! God bless you, Keith.

Technically Bill, Jimmy’s death was a result of the head injury but it occurred because the ALS had caused him to lose function and use of his arms. When he fell, he had no way to catch himself. Oddly enough, he also had a nephew who died with ALS about 6 years after he did.

That’s what I thought, Keith. I knew it was the ALS that caused the fall; I too had falls like that where my arms were useless. I would try falling on my shoulder; it worked once but ended up in a broken shoulder. I now advise newly diagnosed ALS patients to start using a wheelchair when walking becomes difficult.
That’s terrible about his nephew also getting ALS!

God restores, i don’t know how it will happen in your life but It will definitely happen. It is humbling how you trust God by not doing what othes are doing. God bless you abundantly. There is hope, indeed:)

I’m glad to have connected to you – I too have wondered so often the “why” of my husband’s illness and the hardships that have fallen to our children (ages 6 and 4) as a result. I try to make sense of all of it, and I can’t. I really appreciate what you wrote about trials and God allowing them to happen. That does help.

Quick question for you – do you use a program for “speaking” on an ipad? We are starting to research this now and would love your opinion.

Thank you, Erica. Our daughters were 4 and 7 when I was diagnosed; today they’re 24 and almost 21. We can relate to your situation.
Is Jim still able to use his hands and/or speak at all? I am not able to do either so I type with a system that uses a camera to track my eye movements. Ironically the program is called ERICA (cannot remember what it stands for). But this system is obsolete now, even though it’s only 3 years old. Doesn’t Jim have an Occupational Therapist or another doctor that can recommend a device for him? Let me know more about his needs and I can help you find a system.

Thank you Bill for joining up with us we really appreciate you doing so, I’m sorry that it has taken awhile to thank you but I have nearly 400 e-mails in my Inbox and I’m still working my way through them with a Computer that has problems.

We look forward to sharing with you Bill and I hope the Scripture below will uplift an encourage you as it oes me.

Lamentations 3: 33 For He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.

Isaiah 43:1-3 – Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour.”

Jeremiah 29 :11-12 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope

You stopped my blog and I thank you. You have an amazing story and I am very impressed that you answer your comments. You have such inspiring words. You are not defined by your disease but God has used this trial to define who He is in you and I am very blessed to have stopped by your blog and see how God is doing just that. He is an awesome God and even tho you have this trial now, I know you already know this, but thank God that it will not be your eternal trial and God will make all things new!!! I can’t wait to meet you someday on the streets of glory! God bless you friend.

Wow. What a moving story. I agree with you. God doesn’t cause trials, but He *can* use them for good. I am so happy for you that you are still alive and fighting, and not allowing ALS to define you or your outlook on life. This world needs more people like you… Your words are inspiring. Thank you for stopping by my blog. I’m headed now to look at more of yours. 🙂

Thank you, Jessica. Fortunately I learned near the beginning of this trial that I wouldn’t last long if I allowed this or any trial to define me. We are who God says we are whether or not our circumstances are good.

God has indeed blessed you in the lives you have touched. We would all pick different ways to be used by God – but you offer so much encouragement and inspiration to the rest of us to “bloom where we are planted”. May continue to bless you!

Bill I see you liked my post Don’t Drink the Tea, thanks for the visit. I see you have what my mother had, I later found out my brother also had ALS. It was from my finding out about my brother who I hadn’t had contact with for many years that I first starting blogging under odefarms.blogspot but recently moved to billiescauldron here at wordpress. I can not find the words of encouragement of ALS, but am glad you are being lifted and encouraged in HOPE. May your family be strengthened in your trials, know you are not alone. May you and your family be blessed in ways that we do not always understand. If you would like to email me directly I am at billiescauldron@gmail.com

Just stopping by to thank you for your like on Shift Key today. And looking at your blog. Bill, a dear pastor of mine had ALS many years ago. You are in a difficult place of faith that only the hope you already have in Jesus can see you and your family through. Regardless of God’s will in this, the outcome is the same – Glory. You will know God’s glory and see him face-to-face.

Thank you Bill for visiting and liking my new blog, which, in turn, led me to yours. I started my blog as a way to document my ‘fight back’ from a dark time through writing, As a Christian, I am inspired by what you have shared here, thank for baring your soul to us. I shall be praying for you and your family.

Hey Bill. Thanks for sharing your story and testimony of God’s amazing love and grace. One of my christian brothers is battling cancer right now, and I have sent Him the link for this page. I know it will be an encouragement to him. So thank you for what you do, and being a light to all those that are facing their toughest and what may seem to be their darkest moments.

Bill, Why don’t you put up a picture of you and your family here? This will communciate even more the pathos of your situation. Your blog has a much greater reach than just ALS patients. It speaks to the very essence of human frailty and failure, setbacks and discouragement. Your life could easily be a successful book that could bring hope to many. A few tweeks on your blog would help it grow in followers. Pictures! Put pictures to draw the reader in more! Would you like to turn your blog into a book?

Thank you so much for your encouragement! That means a lot and I think encouragement like yours and so many others has helped my outlook tremendously. I haven’t added pictures of myself to the blog because, as I told someone else that asked that, I have a face that’s better suited for email and other mediums of anonymity:-) Seriously, I will add some pictures.
As far as writing a book goes, I began this blog to give and increase hope; I’m open to any means of increasing that mission.
I would appreciate any advice you could offer me.
Thanks again for your help and encouragement!

I think the subject is certainly worth and the story inspirational. Blogging is a great platform for building up to a book. But yes, some pics would draw more readers in to your writing and keep them there. You already have quite a few followers. But the potential is still greater. I’m at your service, Mike

Not every photo should even be of you. The photos draw readers in. They create a mood that compliments the mood of your words like background music in a movie. Some of the photos must be of you. your blog has such enormous potential because not only what you say and how you say it (well) but obviously who you are and what you are going through. Your life experience gives you authority. You’re not speaking theoretically or glibly about real life suffering. You are a modern dad Job, and your prose soars on the wings of eagles. Here’s another tip: on your keyword tags, use all the variations of ALS because you’ll start popping up on Google search. Include “hope for ALS” “hope for ALS sufferers” etc. You’ll start growing in followers.

I get eye-popping photos off of Pinterest. You can also swipe them from Tumblr, Flickr, Instagram but credit the source in the caption. I label the photos according to the source and file them away. I’m always building my file of photos. When I blog, I scan through them and look for ones that create the mood that I’m saying with my words.

It seems to have a predominance of women’s stuff. But among the wedding ideas, the crafts, the recipes, there are also wonderful photos and some cool Christian text boxes. I haven’t used flickr or tumblr, so I don’t know the ins and outs of it. I guess most of the cool photos on pinterest ultimately come form one of those places…

I guess I am casting about trying to form a community, a writer’s group. I want to help people with what I have learned about writing and optimizing internet reach. And of course, I know I’ll be helped by those whom I help. I hope we can begin working closer together! Were you ever a pastor? (Sorry, I still haven’t read all of your blogs. They just appear to follow a very sermon-like progression).

Thank you so much Bill. I feel I can go on fighting in this life and fighting to make my relationship with God better. I’ve been crying a lot lately and hating myself for the mistakes I made. And I hated the trial I am going through – albeit small. Nobody helped me see it better from the perspective of God like you did. I’m so grateful and I am not an emotional type of person. I even shared your blog on Facebook 🙂

Wow, what an inspiring story you have. Thank you so much for sharing and for reminding us that with God we can handle the worst storms. I look forward to reading through your blog and receiving new posts!

With tears in my eyes, I wish to thank you for this beautiful post. It’s so easy to become absorbed by long term illness and have it define us. We need to step back and see the wonderful working of His will for our lives unfold, stop resisting it and rest in His protective arms. He loves us and that is why we love Him. Appreciate your encouraging “like” on my blog.

Thank you for your kind words. You are completely right, “it’s so easy to let a long-term illness (or any trial) define us.” We must fight against that; whether good or bad, we are not defined by circumstances.

Bill,
I always find your post so encouraging. It is good to see the work that GOD does in the lives of other believers. I appreciate that you always read my blog, it is humbling, to be honest, that a man with such great faith and a talent for communicating it would take the to e to read the things I am discovering. GOD bless you Bill, as I know he will be cause he already has.

Bill,
I am honored that you found something helpful in my blog. And you are absolutely right: if difficulties haven’t shown up, they will. But our God is bigger than than them all. 🙂 Blessings and prayers,
Phyllis

Greetings from Australia Bill,
Your story really touched my heart. I feel for you, and am sad of your plight, but at the same time this is tempered with joy and peace knowing that your trials have made you stronger. You are a beautiful testimony of God’s love to sustain us His children in times of hardship and tragedy. I believe that God allows these things in our life to show us a mirror that reveals truth about our faith and spiritual walk with Him. Tragedy reveals the faith of a person, this is the meaning behind “the parable of the sower”. I see with all my heart that this has opened up the wellspring of love for which I praise God. After all if we can bear tragedy with dignity and love, then this bears the strongest witness to the glory of God and love of our Heavenly Father. I pray that God’s grace shines even stronger in you. You are a shining light for me, I almost died at 12years because of a heart problem, I have a permanent disability because of several serious car accidents and complex surgery….but I am still here. Why ? Because the love of Christ our beloved LOrd and Saviour is what sustains me.
God bless you brother

Thank you so much for your encouraging comments, Konstantine; I agree with everything you wrote.
My niece will be going to Tasmania a few weeks to study for a semester. Have you ever taken any photography trips there?
Thanks again.

Thanks for visiting This Perfect World and liking my post, What do I do with discouragement? After visiting your blog and reading your story, it sounds like you have given that question careful thought over these past few years and done some deep soul-searching yourself.
Blessings to you and your family as you continue to live out your trials and your faith in such a public manner. May your hearts be encouraged and strengthened with each new day!
~lauree

Thank you, Lauree. Believe me, I can relate to people who feel discouraged – I hope that I don’t gloss-over the discouragement that accompanies all of our trials. But in a weird way, even the discouragement is good – it gives us perspective and motivates us to search for joy, peace and hope… And we appreciate the joy, peace and hope so much more when we’ve gone through times of despair – it’s like tasting something sweet after only having bitter to eat.

Thank you for stopping by my blog, and I’m glad I stopped at yours… Wow. I can relate to this on an uncomfortable level because my Dad has Lyme Disease (among many other health issues) and it has been whittling away at every aspect of his life for the past 17 years. I know his hope in everything but God and family are completely gone. Thank you for your candor and for being able to share your journey in such an encouraging way.
~Kim

thank you for liking my blog, and also thank you for being such an inspiration to many. All who have lived a life, each have a story to tell, and all matter. I only read a few of the comments, and I can just say ‘ditto’ to them. I’m so sorry that you have this affliction, and yet.. here you are. praising God for all He is! I was diagnosed in 1995 with Systemic Progressive Scleroderma, and given a death sentence at that time through Mayo Clinc. But God is gracious, and for whatever His purposes, I am here today. They say now it’s arthritis and limited scleroderma. When I was diagnosed, I cannot even explain the pain level to do the simplest-seemingly simplest things to most of us..brushing my hair, or teeth, walking across a small room, it was horrible, and with pray to do those. To have a sheet over my body was painful. They packed me with meds, said to go home, and be stressfree while I waited for the disease to do its thing, and then I would die. All those that I connected with at that time, have since died. For me, it was the same in the sense that we didn’t have much to begin with, and for me not being able to work, was VERY tough for us. But personally, all of it, was the best thing that could have EVER happened between me and God. I am SO thankful for His goodness to me. He made stop and be still long enough to hear Him. He took every possible distraction from me during that time and I got to know Him. I count it all joy. Again, my heart goes out to you in this trial, but I’m so thankful to see your heart through your words. Blessings to you this day.

Thank you for your comments and for sharing your story. I like what you said – ” He made stop and be still long enough to hear Him. He took every possible distraction from me during that time and I got to know Him…” I think that is probably the biggest benefit of any severe trial – we stop and learn about who God is and who we really are. That happens also to be what my next post is about.

Wow. What a story! Thank you for your challenging example of faith and perseverance, and thank you for the “Like” on my blog so I could find yours! May God pour His blessing out on you and your family.

Hi Bill,
Thank you for liking my post, “Why I Welcome 2013 with Hope.” Your LIKE led me to you and your powerful life story. I’m looking forward to reading more about your Unshakable Hope. May the Lord grant you strength and daily grace for your extraordinary journey of faith.

Aloha Bill, thanks for the comments that you send my way! You are an awesome, overcoming Christian believer, a source of wisdom to many, but more so an exhorter to remind us to stay with the basics and to look for God’s greater plan which He is bringing forth soon!

I know we shouldn’t compare, but when I read of trials like yours and consider the trial I am going through, mine is nothing compared to yours. Thank you so much for your unshakable hope and inspiration. I look forward to reading more.

Rene, I believe that God gives us the grace we need to deal with any trial. The more severe the trial, the more grace He gives – it’s all relative, in a sense. This is why I never view any people’s trials as “minor.”

Thank you Bill for liking my blog post so that I could discover yours! I trust that your determination to honor God through your life story is blessing others in amazing ways. May He continue to bless you and yours each and every day. All to His Glory!

You are a beacon of hope and light in a dark world. This scripture came to me as I read about you and read your blog: 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. And also this scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:4 (KJV) 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
Therefore, dearest Bill, child of the Most High, be not weary in well doing but carry on to comfort others as you have been comforted by God and by proclaiming the hope that resides in your heart in the faithfulness of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. And may the God of all Grace pour out a blessing upon you and your family which is far beyond anything you could ever hope for or imagine. May the Holy Spirit, the Great Comforter, wrap you tightly in His everlasting love, mercy and grace. Hold fast to God’s unchanging hand for great will be your reward in heaven. Revelation 12:11 (KJV) 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony;

Jesus said He did nothing of Himself but only what He saw and heard from His Father. Self reliance is the greatest downfall in the Christian walk. I cannot and will not pretend to even remotely know what it is like to be in your position. But I do know what it is like to be stubbornly independent. It is only by the grace of God that He has caused me to go through things to humble me and break me so that He might be able to use me even in a small measure. It is when we are helpless and throw ourselves on the mercy of God that He is able to work in our lives. He resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. God passed over many mighty men and chose a humble little shepherd who went on to kill a giant. God uses the weak things of this world to confound the wise. God is working in you and through you and because of your infirmity God is manifesting His glory. It’s easy to give glory to God when life is wonderful. It is quite another thing to give glory to God when faced with, in the natural, insurmountable obstacles. Your faith and hope are a testiment to the grace and glory of God working in your life. You certainly touched my heart. I will continue to keep you in my prayers and believe God for great and mighty things for you.

Thank you, Linda. I agree with you – self-reliance and even self-righteousness seems to be a part of our nature. Even as a Christian, I didn’t realize how self-reliant and prideful I was before being diagnosed with ALS. The really shocking thing is that, even though I am completely helpless (physically), I still battle pride. This proves to me that these are heart issues, Linda!

Hi Bill – I wanted to come back and read after seeing your story. My wonderful step-dad had ALS and I was able to help him and spend a lot of time with him so I look forward to hearing more of your story. Have you heard of Ed Dobson? He is a retired pastor in Grand Rapids, MI who was diagnosed long ago and written a bit too. Praying God’s richest blessings to you and yours Bill.

Bill, where would we be without hope?
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess for He who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10.23) – a verse that challenges and comforts me.
Thank you for taking a look at my blog because now I can follow your journey! Blessings to you. Diane

We would definitely be in a hopeless situation if we didn’t have a bigger than ourselves, Diane – a hope in a loving God! The verse you quoted is one of my favorite hope verses. Thank you for your comments and for following my blog.

I look so forward to “watching” you journey through life. I appreciate your verses and quotes on hope. I do believe that life is like a diary in which one intends to write his story but God writes another. Press on!

You have been such a blessing to me today. Firstly, thank you so much once again for following my blog, your ‘likes’ popping up really spur me on and are a genuine encouragement. You may have just read Mandy’s story on my blog these last 24 hours and if so you will know she has a massive forgiveness issue right now.

I couldn’t believe my eyes as I just read your post about forgiveness and immediately forwarded it onto Mandy and I know she will take it in. The reason I was so taken with your blog is because you wee authentic with your struggles and offered a practical and achievable solution based on a decision based on scripture.

Bill, I know you are the real deal and we speak the same language so may I please ask you to join me in prayer for Mandy. Bless you brother and thanks for your blog.

Thank you for your kind comments, Craig. It’s difficult for most people, even the most sincere Christians, to be authentic. I suppose our pride puts up a false façade, but serious trials usually tear that façade down and allow us to become the “real deal.” It’s kind of hard to be pretentious when you have to rely on others to feed, bathe and dress you:-) I will pray for Mandy.

We just visited our friend who has ALS. He has maintained a great lifestyle for the last 12 years. Slowly, it is creeping up on him. Why can’t we find a cure?!
His wife has been so proactive with diets and vitamins. I sent them your blog!
Praying for you!
XOXO

That’s good, Diane, I’m glad you were able to visit him. What do you mean by “he has maintained a great lifestyle?” With ALS that could mean everything from he’s still walking and talking to he’s still breathing:-). I am glad that he has a loving wife like me that takes care of him!

This is a great story and very inspirational that you turned to God during this really hard time in your life! I have goose bumps writing this comment and I pray that the best days of your life are still to come 🙂
God Bless!